Summary: Which program is best for you depends on what you want to do, what you've used before and many other factors. In word processing you can now choose from WordPerfect for Windows and Word for Windows, as well as several other competitors. WordPerfect is clearly the best for people who have WordPerfect experience and files, but Word is faster and has more power. If you're worried about bugs, don't buy either program until it has been out at least six months. If you're on a budget and don't need the most sophisticated features, pick one of the Windows programs that costs only a fraction as much, such as JustWrite or Works. And if you are really worried about bugs and are on a strict budget, too, stick to DOS word processors.

WordPerfect

Rating: 3 computers

Word

Rating: 3 computers

Share-Tax 1040 -- This tax preparation program is for folks who have all their figures and tax advice (the program doesn't give you any) and simply need to enter them on an electronic form on your computer screen. You can enter numbers randomly; Share-Tax will record them where they're needed and make your calculations for you. There are lots of supplemental forms, and you can print an IRS-approved return on your laser or dot matrix printer. Look for version 1.0 on bulletin boards (or I'll send you a copy for $4). Registration costs from $7.50 up to $40 for professional preparers from Bammel Software, P.O. Box 382194, Duncanville, Texas 75138.